Bocce & Pétanque
The traditional choice for professional play.
Oyster shell has been the premier choice in bocce and pétanque court top coats for generations. The application of oyster shells has stood the test of time for one simple reason: recalcification.
Oyster shells are 98% calcium carbonate. Unlike sand, clay, granite, and aggregate mixes marketed as bocce blends, which break down, shift, or wash away under wet conditions, oyster shell top coat only improves with water. Over time oyster shells begin to re-calcify or fuse. This results in a compact, porous, yet hard surface which makes for excellent play.
Oyster shell grades suitable for bocce and pétanque
Oyster Shell Flour
Oyster shell flour has a sand-like consistency. It is kiln-dried, light in color and turns bright white in the sun. The fine grade re-calcifies more quickly, and gives the court a smoother playing surface and a professional finish. Approximately 80% of our bocce customers choose oyster flour for their courts.
Dried or Wet ⅜” minus
What we often call our version of a “bocce mix” is actually a grade of shell known as landscape grade or ⅜” minus. It comes in both a wet and a dried style. A ⅜” minus grade includes shells that are ⅜” in size and smaller which will include oyster dust and flour. The larger pieces result in a rougher surface and bumpier play.
Ultimately, grade choice comes down to personal preference. Depending on budget and desired final look and play, we recommend one or both of these two shells. Given the personal nature of the final design, we highly recommend clients purchase a sample pack before making a final decision. By seeing and feeling the samples, clients can make an educated decision about which grade/size will work best for their court. We also encourage any clients new to court design to ask questions. We can help you determine how many tons you will need. Most bocce ball courts will use between 4 to 9 tons depending on the court’s size. Our consultants can be reached at 412-764-2565 to help in your court construction.
